Carbon

Carbon is a chemical element that is the basis of all known life and forms an enormous number of compounds.

Forms

Pure carbon appears in different forms, including soft graphite (used in pencils) and hard diamond, the two made of the same element arranged differently.

In life and industry

Carbon is present in all living things and in fuels such as coal, oil and gas. Its compounds are studied in the branch of chemistry called organic chemistry, and carbon dioxide plays a key role in climate change.

Frequently asked questions

Why is carbon important?

It is the basis of all living things and forms countless compounds.

What are diamond and graphite made of?

Both are forms of pure carbon.